Psychologist Judy Fan is an expert in how physical objects facilitate learning. In the classroom, these include pencils, pens, paper, and whiteboards. But in any learning situation, the physical world provides tools for learning and communicating, often trumping the speed and reach of today’s digital technologies. These objects are cognitive tools – physical representations of human thought, she says. They help us think, solve problems, and communicate with others better and more effectively, as she tells host Russ Altman in this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast. 

Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Judy Fan

Connect With Us:

• Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website
• Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon
• Connect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Host Russ Altman introduces guest Judy Fan, a professor of psychology at Stanford University.

(00:02:02) The Essence of Cognitive Tools

What cognitive tools are and their importance from ancient times to the present.

(00:03:37) Historical Context of Cognitive Tools

The historical evolution of cognitive tools and their role in education.

(00:06:57) Cross-Cultural Insights on Cognitive Tools

The universality of cognitive tools and cross-cultural variations.

(00:12:39) Developmental Trajectories in Visual Communication

How children develop the ability to visually communicate concepts and the differences between cultures.

(00:17:01) The Influence of Cultural Artifacts on Perception

How cultural exposure shapes our perception and depiction of the world.

(00:22:15) The Future of Learning Technologies

The impact of technological advancements on cognitive tools and potential directions for the future.

(00:24:29) Hands-On Learning and Interactive Tools

The importance of interactive learning activities that allow students to engage with scientific processes.

(00:27:44) Enhancing Creative Processes Through Technology

Ways technology can aid creative professionals and the development of tools for high-level experts.

(00:30:44) Bridging Novice and Expert Needs

The challenges of designing technology that serves both novices and experts.

(00:33:19) Conclusion

Connect With Us:

Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website

Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon

Connect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook